Time Can Do So Much

FATHER

Now Dad, why did you stay so late?
You should have told me where you went,
And who you saw, and what you spent...

"I am of age, you know."

Why don't you sell that ancient car?
You ought to let me drive. The day
Is cold and you might lose your way...

"And where I please
I'll go."

I brought some slippers and a book
You know the doctor said take care.
Why are your pills still sitting there?

"I'll live until I'm done."

And what a mess around your bench!
No need, you know, to work each day.
Do put your toys-er tools away...

"I'm not your child, my son.
I'm still your father!"

©Lorna Whitelaw/Anderson, 1985
top

OF COURSE I DIDN'T FORGET YOU!

I've been writing my friends at Christmas.
Didn't you get my card?
I remember with joy our friendship!
But I'm finding it terribly hard
To remember which year I last saw you!
(I know my excuse does sound lame)-
But of course I didn't forget you-
I just couldn't remember your name!

Let me think--it was just before Easter--
Or just after Betty was here.
Of course I remember your children-
I just can't remember the year!
And yes, I thought of their birthdays.
Do you say I'm a little too late?
How do you think I could write them
When I couldn't remember the date?

I'm sorry I'm getting forgetful.
So swiftly the summertime passes!
I have a calendar somewhere,
If I knew where I put my glasses!
Oh, yes, I am well. Dr. Whosit
Checks my heart if it's fast or too slow.
I have an appointment to see him,
If I can remember to go.

Now, don't you go fretting about me-
I don't think I'll get any worse.
And the Lord wrote that He'd remain with me--
(I just can't remember the verse).
I may be forgetful of details
Of the date or the time of the day,
But I'll never forget your friendship,
And I never forget to pray.

I'm glad to be able to write you.
I knew you'd want me to explain.
Of course I didn't forget you!
Now... what was your name again?

P.S. If this note arrives late---,
Right again! I forgot the date!

©Lorna Anderson, 1991
top